much of an operational link there is between al qaeda that we've seen traditionally in afghanistan, pakistan, and in iraq. certainly they have become a very potent force, and as weave seen with the mali crisis, it can easily spread into the region, into geopolitical interests of the u.s. and western countries. it is an issue that has to be dealt with immediately. >> thank you very much. >>> coming up, how a red state democrat sells the president's gun control plan, and freshman texas star congressman juaqin cast castro. the unbelievable hopes involving star linebacker. this is andrea mitchell reports only on msnbc. we've all had those moments. when you lost the thing you can't believe you lost. when what you just bought, just broke. or when you have a little trouble a long way from home... as an american express cardmember you can expect some help. but what you might not expect, is you can get all this with a prepaid card. spends like cash. feels like membership. i've got two tickets to paradise!l set? pack your bags, we'll leave tonight. uhh, it's next month, actually... eddie continues sin